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BACKGROUND The rampant spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has assumed pandemic proportions across the world. Attempts to contain its spread have entailed varying early screening and triage strategies implemented in different countries and regions. AIM To share the experience of scientific and standardized management of fever clinics in China, which provide the first effective checkpoint for the prevention and control of COVID-19. INTRODUCTION A fever clinic was established at our hospital in Tianjin, China, for initially identifying suspected cases of COVID-19 and controlling the spread of the disease. METHODS The management system covered the following aspects: spatial layout; partitioning of functional zones; a work management system and associated processes; management of personnel, materials and equipment; and patient education. RESULTS Within two months of introducing these measures, there was a comprehensive reduction in the number of new COVID-19 cases in Tianjin, and zero infections occurred among medical staff at the fever clinic. DISCUSSION The fever clinic plays an important role in the early detection, isolation and referral of patients presenting with fevers of unknown origin. Broad screening criteria, an adequate warning mechanism, manpower reserves and staff training at the clinic are essential for the early management of epidemics. CONCLUSION The spread of COVID-19 has been effectively curbed through the establishment of the fever clinic, which merits widespread promotion and application. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING AND HEALTH POLICIES Health managers should be made aware of the important role of fever clinics in the early detection, isolation and referral of patients, and in the treatment of infectious diseases to prevent and control their spread. In the early stage of an epidemic, fever clinics should be established in key areas with concentrated clusters of cases. Simultaneously, the health and safety of health professionals require attention.
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